BBMP can now declare private streets public in Bengaluru

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Amendment Bill 2025 has been introduced in the Legislative Assembly. This bill will allow the BBMP to declare private streets in Bengaluru as public streets. It was presented by H. K. Patil, the state's Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister. The new law defines a "public street" as any path where the public has the right of way. It will cover streets that are maintained by either the corporation or the government. The bill aims to improve public access and safety by enabling the BBMP to manage private streets, including making hazardous drains safer. Under this plan, zonal commissioners can propose to declare a private street public. They will notify the owners nearby and seek feedback. If a private street is in multiple zones, the affected commissioners must coordinate before making a declaration. Additionally, the bill allows the BBMP to establish fees and penalties related to property permits. This aligns with tax authority as per the Indian Constitution. The bill also aims to reduce fees for residential building permits and to combat unauthorized construction practices in the city.